The Brazilian horticultural agronomist between gardening and landscaping

C. Petry, L. Dallagnese, M.E. Ventura, N.B.U. Garcia, M. Valiati, R. Geiser
In Brazil, which professional is responsible for the implementation of urban horticultural projects? Given the fact of recent courses in horticulture and the non-existence of the landscaping profession, the aim of this study is to emphasize the importance of the profession of agronomist over the last century in urban plant production for increasing the quality of life, even though in the last 50 years there has been specialization of the profession in the agribusiness interest of grain production for export. Therefore, there is an urgent need for reflection on current academic training in this profession in the process of consulting services for landscaping and urban horticulture. In the south of Brazil, due to European origins, there is increasing real estate value of peri-urban areas and a consistent annual increase of 20% in the floriculture market. This visual product in urban landscaping is sketched out in agronomy through studies and extension projects in nurseries, gardens, squares and tree planting (urban and highway). Knowledge of botany and plant ecophysiology ally science and art with production of native flowers, medicinal plants, fruit-bearing plants and vegetable growing. From seedling production up to consumption or plant use in landscaping this chain has fulfilled many social functions, such as an increase in employment prospects, engagement in social and philanthropic type projects, and alternatives for occupational therapy with income and product generation. The aim of this study is to help current Brazilian agronomy rescue the origin of horticulture and integrate these new concepts.
Petry, C., Dallagnese, L., Ventura, M.E., Garcia, N.B.U., Valiati, M. and Geiser, R. (2016). The Brazilian horticultural agronomist between gardening and landscaping. Acta Hortic. 1108, 269-276
DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2016.1108.49
https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2016.1108.49
agronomist education, horticultural education, traditional horticulture, sustainable horticulture, development challenges
English

Acta Horticulturae